Quoits is one of the North East’s great traditional sports — a game deeply rooted in the mining villages, working men’s clubs and local communities of Teesside, County Durham and Tyneside. For well over a century, players across the region have gathered around clay beds and hobs, combining skill, precision and friendly competition in a sport that remains uniquely Northern.

Across the North East, quoits became more than simply a pastime. It formed part of community life, with leagues, pub teams and social clubs creating lasting friendships and fierce but respectful rivalries. Even today, many traditional clubs continue to preserve the sport and its heritage.

Here at Nunthorpe Quoits Club, that proud tradition is still very much alive. Based within the wider Nunthorpe & Marton Playing Fields Association facilities, the club helps keep an important part of North East sporting culture thriving for future generations.

Traditionally, the Northern game is played by throwing a heavy steel quoit towards a metal pin — known as a “hob” — set into a clay bed. Players score by landing closest to the hob or by successfully “ringing” it with the quoit. While it may look simple, the game demands remarkable accuracy, touch, consistency and tactical thinking.

One of quoits’ greatest strengths is its inclusivity. It is genuinely a sport for all abilities and all ages. New players can quickly enjoy the social side of the game, while experienced competitors continue refining their technique over many years. Strength alone does not determine success — skill, rhythm and consistency are what matter most — making it accessible to everyone.

 If you interested in taking up a new sport contact Peter Goodchild  or Eric Davison by following the link